Print Server Job Set Linking for Sequential Document Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional print environments require multiple separate print jobs for multiple documents with diverse settings, leading to a burdensome process when producing packages of printed materials, especially when multiple sets are needed.
Innovation Solution
A method implemented on a print server and printer that generates and executes sub-jobs with linking information, allowing users to specify the order and settings for multiple documents as a job set, which are then printed sequentially, eliminating the need for individual submissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate print jobs are submitted for multiple documents with diverse settings, then each document can be printed with its specific settings, but the process becomes burdensome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments a complex print job into multiple sub-jobs, where each sub-job corresponds to a specific document with its own print settings. The system divides the overall printing task into manageable units (sub-jobs) that can be processed independently but are coordinated through a job set structure, allowing diverse settings for each document while maintaining centralized control
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-defining job sets with multiple sub-jobs and their associated print settings before actual printing begins. Users configure the entire job set with all necessary parameters in advance, and the system prepares the sequence of sub-jobs beforehand, eliminating the need for repeated manual submission and configuration during the printing process
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate print jobs are submitted sequentially, then individual documents can be printed, but the productivity decreases when multiple sets are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate print jobs into a unified job set structure. By combining multiple sub-jobs (each representing a document) into a single job set that can be submitted and processed as one unit, the system maintains the ability to handle individual document requirements while significantly improving productivity through batch processing and automated sequencing
Solution Approach 2:
The system ensures continuity of useful action by automatically processing sub-jobs in sequence without requiring manual intervention between them. Once a job set is submitted, the printer continuously processes each sub-job in the defined order, maintaining uninterrupted printing flow and eliminating idle time associated with repeated user actions
3Quantity of substance
If multiple copies of documents need to be assembled into sets, then complete packages can be produced, but the complexity of managing multiple submissions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new organizational dimension by implementing a job set structure that groups multiple sub-jobs together with a parent job ID. This hierarchical arrangement adds a layer of organization beyond individual jobs, allowing the system to manage multiple copies and sets through a structured framework that tracks relationships between parent jobs and their constituent sub-jobs
Data Source
AI summary
A method for producing packages of printed materials arranged in order based on multiple original digital documents. A user interface is provided to allow the user to specify the order of the original documents to be printed. A print server generates multiple sub-jobs which contain linking information that links them to each other in the specified order to form a job set. The job set can be submitted to a printer in one submission. A printer executes the linked sub-jobs sequentially based on the linking information contained in the sub-jobs to produce the multiple printed documents in the specified order.